Pratik Bijlani – The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), in collaboration with Indian maritime unions, successfully organised MILAAP – ITF Seafarers Expo 2026 at Princess Dock, Mumbai, from 29 to 31 January 2026, creating one of the largest seafarer-centric platforms ever held in India. With an expected footfall of over 6,000 seafarers and family members, the three-day event brought together seafarers, unions, regulators, welfare institutions and global stakeholders under one roof to celebrate, engage and strengthen India’s maritime workforce. This Expo aimed to strengthen seafarer welfare, awareness and engagement, providing direct access to information on rights, contracts, welfare schemes, health, wellbeing and career development.
The Expo opened with a vibrant ceremonial welcome featuring cultural performances and a marching band led by seafarers, followed by a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of the late Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Pawar, acknowledging his contributions. The inauguration was graced by Chief Guest Shri Sameer Kumar Khare, Chairman of the National Shipping Board, and Guest of Honour Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, alongside senior representatives from ITF, ILO and Indian maritime unions.
During the inaugural ceremony, the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) logo was formally unveiled, symbolising care, protection, dignity and lifelong support for Indian seafarers. The launch coincided with the announcement of a restructured insurance support framework under SWFS, providing ₹3,000 towards medical insurance, ₹1,000 towards critical illness cover and ₹1,000 towards term life insurance for eligible seafarers. The initiative aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensure basic health and life insurance coverage becomes accessible to all, reinforcing the Government of India’s people-centric approach to maritime welfare.
In his address, Shri Sameer Kumar Khare described the Expo as a reflection of India’s maritime strength and solidarity, stating, “This is not just an exhibition, but a celebration of India’s maritime strength and a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the welfare, dignity and future of our sea traders, who continue to serve the global shipping industry with immense sacrifice and dedication.” He encouraged seafarers and their families to engage with experts on rights, contracts and career pathways, while reaffirming government support on issues such as fair pay, repatriation and a just green transition.
Shri Shyam Jagannathan reaffirmed the Maritime Administration’s unwavering support for seafarers, outlining initiatives such as the Seafarers Welfare Fund, Provident Fund, PRANAAM counter at Mumbai Airport, quality seafarer clubs, and a 24×7 grievance redressal mechanism. He emphasized zero tolerance for corruption, technology-driven reforms and holistic initiatives like Sagar Mein Yog and Sagar Mein Samman, noting, “The Maritime Administration stands with Indian seafarers 24×7 — committed to their welfare, dignity and safety. Through welfare reforms, technology-driven governance and initiatives like PRANAAM and Sagar Mein Yog, we are ensuring that every Indian seafarer sails with confidence, competence and pride.”
ITF General Secretary Mr. Stephen Cotton highlighted India’s central role in global shipping and the future of maritime labour, stressing the importance of rights protection, ethical recruitment and safe training for new fuels. He remarked, “India is not just important to global shipping—it is central to its future. Indian seafarers carry a proud maritime legacy, and our collective responsibility is to protect their rights, raise training standards, stop exploitation and ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges of a rapidly changing maritime world.”
Across three days, the Expo hosted expert-led sessions on seafarer criminalisation, abandonment, MLC compliance, ethical recruitment, health and safety at sea, and mental wellbeing. The Directorate General of Shipping operated two large thematic pavilions offering on-site guidance on welfare schemes, documentation support and grievance redressal, while interactive activities, counselling desks and family-oriented programmes reinforced the Expo’s inclusive spirit. MILAAP 2026 successfully served as a platform for dialogue, support and solidarity, reaffirming India’s growing global maritime role and its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and future of its seafaring community.
Marex Media